‘Be the difference’: 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum celebrates 4-H and Extension volunteers
One of the largest events of its kind, this biennial forum recognizes the compassion and commitment of Kentucky’s 4-H and Extension volunteers while preparing them to lead their programs with confidence.
The forum will feature more than 225 workshops spanning 25 content tracks, including professional development sessions, seminars on wheels, networking opportunities, and a trade show with 60 vendors. Two recognition events will also highlight the contributions of volunteers and youth, celebrating their impact on the 4-H program.
Volunteers attending the forum can also complete the necessary accreditation requirements in nine content areas:
- Agriculture and animal sciences
- Camping
- Clover Buds
- Communications and expressive arts
- Family and consumer sciences
- Health and well-being
- Leadership
- Natural resources and science
- Engineering and technology
Accredited volunteers will receive lesson plans and educational materials to support club leadership and educational activities for the next two years.
Kentucky 4-H Master Volunteer accreditation begins with four core workshops:
- An introduction to 4-H
- 4-H club and risk management and involving parents and volunteers
- Ages and stages of youth development
- Teaching methods and learning styles
Additionally, 76 award recipients, comprised of volunteers and community partners, will be recognized and inducted at the Hall of Fame banquet ceremony for their contributions to the Kentucky 4-H Program and their impact on youth. One recipient is the late George Heersche, Jr., a Kentucky volunteer and dairy specialist who was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2024.
Kentucky 4-H ranks second nationally for those inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame. Kentucky 4-H will also recognize 176 youth who have completed 10 years of 4-H membership at the Saturday Recognition Brunch.
Palladium, platinum, and gold sponsors include The R.C. Durr Foundation, Department of 4-H Youth Development, Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Dr. George A. Duncan and the late Ruth H. Duncan, Martin-Gatton CAFE and UK Cooperative Extension. A full list of sponsors can be found here.
For more event information and to register, visit https://4-h.ca.uky.edu/core-program-areas/kentucky-volunteer-forum or contact your local county extension office at https://extension.ca.uky.edu/county. Registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 19.
Central Bank Convention Center